Severe flea infestation in dairy calves

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Abstract:

In June 1991, an investigation was conducted
of a severe flea infestation in 23 Holstein dairy
calves in South Central Kansas. Inspection of the
dairy revealed massive numbers of fleas on calves
and in the barn where they were housed. Analysis
of blood samples from 10 calves revealed that
nine of them had mild to severe anemia. A
management program was initiated consisting of
treatments of calves and premises with insecticide
and insect growth regulator and removal of straw
bedding from the barn. Inspection of the dairy 9
wk after this complete control program was
initiated revealed that fleas were not evident on
calves or on the premises.